Traditional Leaders Call on Ghanaians to Preserve Cultural Heritage as Bibiani Old Town Performs Customary Rites Ahead of Resettlement

Traditional Leaders Call on Ghanaians to Preserve Cultural Heritage as Bibiani Old Town Performs Customary Rites Ahead of Resettlement

Bibiani, Western North Region – The traditional authorities of Bibiani Old Town, in collaboration with Asante Gold Mines Bibiani Limited, have performed customary rites to officially pave the way for the relocation of residents from Bibiani Old Town and Zongo to a newly developed resettlement community.

The colourful ceremony, held under the auspices of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area, brought together chiefs, queen mothers, traditional priests, Christian and Muslim leaders, elders, community members, and officials of Asante Gold Mines Bibiani Limited. The event was aimed at invoking the blessings and protection of the ancestors and seeking peace, unity, and prosperity for residents before they move into their new homes.

The resettlement project forms part of the mining company's commitment to relocating families whose homes have been affected by mining operations due to their proximity to the company's concession. The initiative is expected to improve the safety and living conditions of affected residents while allowing mining activities to continue responsibly.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Sumankwahene of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area, Nana Anyimah Gyedu, stressed the importance of preserving Ghana's cultural heritage and urged Ghanaians to continue respecting traditional customs and practices.

According to him, the performance of customary rites before relocating an entire community is an important cultural obligation that has been observed by their forefathers for generations. He explained that the rituals involved the slaughtering of chickens, sheep, and cattle, as well as the pouring of libation to honour the ancestors and seek their blessings, guidance, and protection over the people as they begin a new chapter in the resettlement community.

He noted that respecting such traditions promotes unity, peaceful coexistence, and harmony between the living, the ancestors, and the land.

Asante Gold Mines Reaffirms Commitment

The Sustainability Manager of Asante Gold Mines Bibiani Limited, Lawyer Emmanuel Aidoo, described the ceremony as another significant milestone in the company's resettlement programme.

He said the successful performance of the customary rites demonstrates the strong partnership between the mining company and the traditional authorities, adding that Asante Gold Mines remains committed to fulfilling its obligations to affected communities.

Lawyer Aidoo stated that the company will continue to invest in responsible mining practices and implement sustainable community development projects through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes.

He appealed to residents to continue supporting the operations of the company by maintaining peace and working together for the development of the municipality. He also requested the chiefs and traditional leaders to continue remembering the company in their prayers and traditional rites for God's protection, peace, and success in its operations.

Chief Commends Mining Company

The Chief of Bibiani Old Town, Nana Kwanor, expressed appreciation to Asante Gold Mines Bibiani Limited for honouring its commitment to construct modern resettlement houses for affected residents.

He acknowledged that although many residents initially doubted whether the project would be completed, the successful completion of the first phase has restored confidence and strengthened trust in the company.

Nana Kwanor disclosed that the resettlement project is being implemented in three phases. He explained that residents whose homes are closest to the mining pit will be the first beneficiaries to relocate, while construction of the second phase is nearing completion. The third phase, he added, will accommodate all remaining affected households.

He urged beneficiaries to live peacefully with one another, protect the facilities provided in the new community, and strictly observe the rules and regulations governing the mining company's operations to ensure a harmonious relationship between the company and the community.

The customary rites mark a major step toward the successful implementation of the Bibiani Old Town and Zongo resettlement project, which is expected to enhance the safety, welfare, and socio-economic well-being of affected residents while preserving the cultural traditions of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area.

Source:Bibianinews.com